Increasing of efficiency by means of reducing pollution. They main areas of action of Cleaner Production are: more >>

Benefits of Cleaner Production

The environmental benefits of pollution prevention and cleaner production directly coincide with economical interests. More specifically, there are numerous benefits which result from pollution prevention and cleaner production activities:

First, pollution prevention and cleaner production programs are beneficial because they reduce operating costs. For example, the costs connected with waste treatment, storage, and disposal are often reduced through pollution prevention and cleaner production programs and the savings can be used to offset the development and implementation costs of the program. Material, energy and facility cleanup costs can also be reduced through pollution prevention and cleaner production strategies.

Second, pollution prevention and cleaner production programs reduce ecological damage from raw material extraction and refining operations, and the risk of emissions during the production process and during recycling, treatment and disposal operations.

Third, pollution prevention and cleaner production programs improve a company's image. For example, employees, regulators, and local residents are likely to feel more positive towards a company when they recognize that the management is committed to provide a safe working-environment and to minimize pollution.

Finally, participation in pollution prevention and cleaner production activities can reduce the risk of civil and criminal liability by minimizing the amount of waste generated. This benefit is particularly important, if the waste products are hazardous or toxic in nature. Pollution prevention and cleaner production make compliance with national, provincial, and local regulations easier.